By Waziri Mahdi Isa
In a groundbreaking achievement for African medical research, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) has secured a €5 million (₦9 billion) grant to develop an AI-driven microscope that could revolutionize diagnosis of parasitic diseases across the continent.
The MultiplexAI project – the first Horizon Europe-funded initiative hosted at ABU – will target sleeping sickness, malaria, leishmaniasis and filariasis through cutting-edge technology accessible in remote areas.
The university’s statement revealed the project’s competitive selection: “MultiplexAI was chosen after a rigorous evaluation process from a pool of 240 proposals… Only four projects were eventually selected for funding.”
Leading the initiative is Dr. Gloria Dada Chechet, an internationally-recognized biochemist from ABU’s Africa Centre of Excellence for Neglected Tropical Diseases. The university described her device as transformative.
“The tool will empower frontline health workers to accurately detect multiple infections at the point of care using just a microscope, a smartphone, and an app.”
ABU hailed the grant as a historic validation of African research capabilities.
“This award cements Ahmadu Bello University’s position among Africa’s leading voices in digital health innovation.”
The Vice-Chancellor emphasized the broader implications, stating: “This success enhances Nigeria’s reputation in international research and showcases our growing capacity to lead advancements in science, technology and public health.”
With its combination of AI, mobile technology and diagnostic precision, the MultiplexAI project represents a potential game-changer for combating neglected tropical diseases that disproportionately affect Africa’s most vulnerable populations.